4 Lucrative Job Alternatives to Consider This Summer

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This summer, many job seekers
will flock to job boards, attend countless networking events and
scour through their contact lists to find the perfect position.
No matter if you’re fresh out of school or an experienced
professional looking for something new, try thinking outside the
box.

That’s right, there are some job alternatives that may
be just as fulfilling as traditional positions. Consider these
four options:

1. Hourly work

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, average hourly
earnings have actually increased over the past year. That means
employers are not only hiring hourly workers, but these workers’
earnings are increasing.

Hourly work comes in all shapes and sizes, too. Maybe you want to
earn some extra bucks as an event coordinator. Perhaps you want
to work retail or even serve on the side. Well, with
hourly work, you may be able to try out whatever you
want. Plus, if your hourly gig goes well, there’s a
chance it might turn into a full-time position. Who can argue
with that?

Tip: There’s nothing wrong with trying out multiple hourly gigs!
As long as they don’t conflict, either personally or
professionally, give a few hourly jobs a try. You can use the
experience to find out what you like and what you’d rather not
pursue.

2. Freelancing

The world of freelancing is about
as untraditional as it gets. Typically, freelancers aren’t
attached to a company, but rather work for themselves. A lot of
creatives, such as graphic designers or communication
specialists, are freelancers. They work on a project-by-project
basis or for a company for a longer period of time. Either way,
if you’d like the opportunity to work with an array of
companies while still performing familiar tasks,
freelancing this summer may be right up your alley.

Tip: Create an online and offline work portfolio to show off your
stuff. Presenting your work history in a simple way will heighten
your legitimacy and impress potential clients.

3. Volunteering

Volunteering for an
organization is a noble gesture. Though you may not get paid,
you’re certainly compensated in experience. From
environmental organizations to non-profit causes, volunteer work
can be fulfilling because you feel like you contributed to a
mission. Plus, you may even gain valuable contacts or
recommendations that can help you land your next job.

Tip: Just because you may not be getting paid for your efforts
doesn’t mean you can’t contribute a thing or two to the cause.

Have an idea that can help improve the organization? Speak up and
suggest it! Many volunteer-based organizations would be happy to
hear all ideas and may incorporate your suggestions into their
operations if possible. Remember, putting in an effort is always
encouraged, no matter what you get in return.

4. Contracted gigs

Contracted jobs occur when professionals work for an organization
for a set period of time or through set terms. For example, an
organization may need an assistant for three months or may want
to hire a marketing director for a set amount of money. Though
these terms can be negotiated, budgets and timeframes are
typically set in stone from the beginning. This allows employers
to evaluate employees in a set time period and gives them room to
expand the position if necessary.

Tip: Like your contracted gig so much you want to stay? Then make
it happen!

Oftentimes, contracted workers are aware of their end point, so
they don’t think they can create an opportunity—but you
can use the experience you gained to stay. This may mean
coming up with a big idea, suggesting your services for a new
project or just sitting down with your boss. Whatever you decide,
be sure to take control of your contracted gig and extend your
stay.

What other summer job alternatives have you come
across?

Lynn Dixon is the Co-Founder and COO of Hourly.com, an employment network that quickly
matches people who are interested in flexible positions with the
right opportunities. Connect with Lynn and Hourly on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.